Getting a flat tire while driving can be frightening, but it can help if you’re prepared. These tips from our technicians at Fields BMW Northfield will help you confidently change your BMW tire the next time it's flat.
Secure Your Vehicle
Before you attempt to change a flat tire, make sure your vehicle is secure. Get your vehicle away from traffic and make sure you are parked on a flat surface in a safe location. You also want to turn on your hazard lights and apply your parking brake.
Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, make sure you have the following equipment:
- Spare tire
- Lug wrench
- Jack
- Wheel wedges
- Flashlight
Prep Your Vehicle
As an added precaution, use wheel wedges to keep your vehicle secure. Then, using your lug wrench, loosen your lug nuts (which may require a lot of force). Make sure you don’t remove them completely just yet.
Change Your Tire
Now, it’s time to carefully change your tire, which should take less than 30 minutes to complete. Follow this step-by-step guide:
- Place your jack beneath your vehicle’s frame near the flat tire.
- If possible, place a block of wood under the jack to stabilize it.
- Lift your vehicle until it’s approximately six inches off the ground.
- Unscrew the lug nuts completely and remove the flat tire.
- Attach your spare tire and reattach (and tighten) the lug nuts.
- Lower your vehicle until it’s resting on the ground and tighten the lug nuts completely.
- Lower your vehicle completely, remove the jack, and pack up all of your supplies.
Keep in mind that you shouldn’t drive on a spare tire for more than 50 miles. It’s important that you reach out to our BMW dealership in Northfield, IL for a tire replacement when you're back on the road. We’ll get your vehicle taken care of in no time!